TL;DR
- Umut and Roberta discuss their cultural identities and LGBTQ+ allyship.
- Both leaders emphasize the importance of inclusivity in the workplace.
- They share personal experiences that shaped their views on acceptance.
- RS Group is highlighted for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- The conversation reflects on challenges and progress in LGBTQ+ rights.
In the vibrant tapestry of Europe, two inspiring leaders are weaving their narratives of identity and allyship into the fabric of corporate culture. Umut Payzin-Kögel and Roberta Schiappadori, both pivotal figures at RS Group, are not just climbing the corporate ladder; they’re also advocating for a workplace where everyone can be their true selves. Their stories are a testament to the power of understanding, acceptance, and the relentless pursuit of inclusivity.
Umut, a proud child of Turkish immigrants, grew up in Pforzheim, Germany, where he learned to navigate the complexities of cultural identity. With a career that began in a warehouse, his journey took him through various roles until he found his niche at RS Group, where he champions diversity across EMEA. He reflects on his childhood, saying, “I was seen as ‘the Turkish’ in Germany and ‘the German guy’ in Türkiye. I often found myself asking, ‘Who am I?’” But rather than being confined by these labels, Umut embraced a broader sense of identity, one that transcends cultural boundaries.
Roberta’s path also began with a thirst for storytelling. Growing up in Milan, she was influenced by a family that encouraged critical thinking and open dialogue. Her experiences in a conservative Catholic high school opened her eyes to the struggles many face regarding identity and acceptance. Through a close friendship with an LGBTQ+ peer, Roberta learned firsthand about the challenges of being different. “I witnessed the struggles of acceptance, which fueled my desire to be an ally,” she shares. Today, as the EMEA Communications Manager at RS, she works tirelessly to foster an environment where diversity is celebrated.
Both leaders are vocal about the importance of LGBTQ+ allyship in the workplace. Umut came out as gay at 30, fearing the reaction of his family due to cultural norms. However, he was met with love and acceptance. “When I started working at RS, I found an environment where I could be my true self. No hiding, no secrets,” he states. This acceptance has fueled his commitment to ensuring others feel the same way in their work environments.
Roberta echoes this sentiment, highlighting the need for companies to not just tick boxes on diversity initiatives but to genuinely integrate inclusivity into their operations. “True inclusion means ensuring that sexual orientation or gender identity is not part of a ‘complication equation,’” she asserts. This perspective is crucial, especially in a country like Italy, where LGBTQ+ individuals still face significant challenges.
The duo emphasizes that the journey towards inclusivity is ongoing. They advocate for education, open dialogue, and visible leadership commitment to create safe spaces for all employees. “It’s about small everyday actions that foster respect and inclusion,” Umut explains. Roberta adds that when discriminatory behaviors arise, they must be addressed firmly and clearly to prevent normalization.
Umut and Roberta’s stories are not just about their personal journeys; they reflect a broader narrative of progress and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights. As they share their experiences, they hope to inspire others to join the movement for inclusivity and acceptance. “If sharing my perspective contributes even in a small way to that journey, then it’s absolutely worth doing it!” Umut concludes, reminding us all of the importance of visibility and allyship in creating a better world for everyone.